Traditionally, patients are given nothing-by-mouth (NPO) after major abdominal or pelvic surgery to allow rest for the dysfunctional bowel because of the concern of precipitating postoperative ileus. Patients are started on a clear liquid diet and advanced accordingly when there is documentation of bowel function such as passing flatus, presence of bowel sounds, or no obvious evidence of bowel obstruction such as nausea and vomiting. This was based on the fact that colonic motility is the last to recover after abdominal surgery (usually 3-5 days) and this is less precise in patients who develop constipation. However, the small bowel returns to normal peristaltic activity within 12-24 hours and the stomach within 24-48 hours. In addition, large body of evidence indicates that early feedings and early ambulation stimulates gastrointestinal motility, reduces overall complication rates as well as improves patient comfort and satisfaction. Laxatives also increase GI motility, will permit passage of flatus and/or stool, making the surgeon more comfortable in permitting early oral feeds. This will increase patient satisfaction, increase comfort by decreasing bloating and allow faster recovery. Bisacodyl is a mild laxative and so greatly suited for study in the post-operative period. However, laxative use can itself cause cramping, abdominal pain, and bloating.